2019 Chevrolet Malibu Spy Photo

Chevrolet released the 9th generation of the Malibu a couple of years back and since then the car managed to get itself at the top of its class. Unlike its predecessor, the new model is more economical, safer and considerably better to drive. However, the car is not perfect and it looks like an update might be on its way. So far GM didn’t say a word about the future 2019 Chevrolet Malibu which is likely going to be the mid-life facelift of the car. Even so, journalists managed to photograph the camouflaged test mule of the future car. It looks like there will be more to it than just a few mild changes.

Just like with the current model, the future 2019 car will use the same E2XX modular architecture. This will allow it to retain the same levels of stiffness and structural rigidity as before. However, it looks like the NVH levels might get better. Chevrolet would achieve this by adding better sound insulation which is not perfect on the current car. Some also suggested the running gear of the car will go through a small change as well.

However, we find this unlikely, especially since the current model is comfortable and capable on the road. The only real upgrade is likely going to be the car’s steering box. The current model is lacking in this regard and it looks like this will change.

2019 Chevrolet Malibu spy photo – Source: autoevolution.com

Design and Concept

One of the biggest changes to happen with the future 2019 Chevrolet Malibu will be its looks. Even though the car is still under wraps, we can see a few new design cues under all that camouflage.

In the front, it seems like the split grille design will stay. However, the lower part of the grille seems considerably larger while the bumper seems to have no intake at all. The headlights also seem to be slightly wider than before while the upper grille seems slimmer.

The end result looks to be more similar to the Camaro which is always a nice turn of events. The rear of the car, on the other hand, won’t get so many changes. In fact, it looks like here the only real upgrades will be the tail lights.

2019 Chevrolet Malibu Spy photo – Source: motor1.com

Interior

The interior of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu is expected to be roughly the same as before, at least in terms of design. The movable infotainment screen, the minimalist-looking dashboard, and the great seating position will all stay. However, the car’s old-looking instrument cluster is likely going to be replaced with a new digital unit.

On top of that, the rather cheap plastics on the dashboard and doors will be gone. In its place, the new Malibu should feature considerably better materials, especially if GM wants the car to succeed in the future.

2017 Chevrolet Malibu interior shown – Source: motortrend.ca

Engine and Specs

If the rumors are true then not much will change with its engines. It looks like the base model of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu will continue to offer a 1.5-liter turbo-four engine. With around 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, this should easily meet most people’s demands.

Further up the range, the buyers will also be able to choose a larger1.8-liter hybrid. This will likely still provide a combined output of 182 horsepower which is mildly better. The big improvement will be the fuel consumption.

With it the car should easily achieve more than 40 MPG on average. The range-topping models will likely continue to come equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With as much as 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, this will allow the Malibu to outrun most of its rivals. Luckily it looks like both petrol engines will come equipped with a new 9 speed automatic.

The hybrid will retain the same CVT as before though. Also, this time around, an all wheel drive system might become available in the near future. This would allow the Malibu to put all that power to the ground with more ease and it should give it better all weather capabilities.

2017 Chevrolet Malibu 2.0T engine shown – Source: motortrend.com

2019 Chevrolet Malibu Release and Price

When do we expect the new Malibu on the market? We believe it will appear at the beginning of 2018, as a 2019 MY. Detroit Auto Show is a place where we could see it for the first time.

Let's compare....

MSRP

Kia Optima

$22,500

Ford Fusion

$22,300

Honda Accord

N/A

Mazda6

$22,000

Subaru Legacy

$22,200

2019 Malibu will have a slightly higher price than the previous model and should come at $24,000 for the base model. Basically, this is an affordable family car, worth every dollar.

About The Author

2018carontheroad.com is a young car magazine but one with a lot of passion and effort put into it. My name is Sinisa Vujinovic and I have been a car enthusiast since I can remember. For years, motor vehicles have been a hobby of mine and now I have decided to dedicate some time to it. That's why today you have this automotive blog on your hands. My intent is to bring the latest stories from car industry directly to you, our dear reader. Car reviews, rumors, spy photos, funny stories all in one place. Hope you will enjoy reading as much as I have while writing these articles. Thanks for being here with us!